Sweeping changes to parliamentary constituency borders were also revealed – including the abolition of the Salford and Eccles and Worsley and Eccles South seats to become a Swinton constituency.

The proposals would have placed landmarks like Salford Quays, Salford Cathedral and Salford University, alongside Weaste, Langworthy and Ordsall, into the Manchester Central constituency.

The BCE today announced its revised plans. MPs were briefed yesterday and Hazel Blears last night revealed Salford – and large parts of Greater Manchester – had been saved in what she described as ‘a complete turnabout’.

She said the initial proposals for Salford had been completely revised and the two seats of Salford and Eccles as well as Worsley and Eccles South would remain. But the major cross-border changes are still likely to involve Bolton North, Darwen, Rochdale North and Rawtenstall.

A new constituency of Hazel Grove and Poynton is said to have been recommended, alongside a joining of Bolton North and Darwen.

Ms Blears said the revised plans would mean Greater Manchester losing only one seat.

She said: “It is fantastic news. They have gone completely back on all their proposals and it is extremely good news for Salford. It was a barmy plan and this is a complete U-turn.”

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